Michelle Boccaccio Chapko

The committee discussed several key items, including the presentation of the FY 25 Audit Report, which resulted in a clean opinion. Members reviewed a roof repair project, authorizing a contract for $2.2 million. The committee also recommended authorizing the purchase of up to two ferry vessels, the San Juan Clipper and the Candy Stripe, for the Tampa Bay Ferry service within the existing $4.85 million budget. Additionally, the committee recommended exercising option years for the media relations contract with Catalyst Communications and approved a no-cost contract modification for the USF bus yard automation project. Monthly financial and quarterly reports were also presented.

The meeting featured an awards and recognition segment welcoming new board members and highlighting funding for hurricane repairs and electric bus chargers. The board approved the consent agenda, including various contract modifications and infrastructure projects. Action items included the acceptance of the FY 2025 Audit Report, approval of the purchase of Tampa Bay Ferry vessels, and authorization of a task order for the Alternate 19 premium transit project. Reports were provided on transit ridership and productivity, and future meeting topics were previewed.

The committee reviewed the draft Board Workshop agenda, focusing on potential updates to the organization's mission and vision statements based on stakeholder impacts. The meeting also included a review of the upcoming Board agenda, which covers the FY 25 Audit Report, a roof repair project, transit planning task orders, and a ferry service update. Discussions were held regarding communication protocols for commissioners and strategies for maintaining Board member attendance.

The committee received updates on state and federal legislative matters. Discussions included the timeline for finalizing the state budget, the status of property tax reform, and the passage of a sovereign immunity bill with increased caps. Federal updates covered congressional activity regarding the Department of Homeland Security shutdown, the upcoming release of the administration's budget, and the anticipated schedule for the transportation bill. Additionally, the committee addressed local outreach efforts for veterans and the existing partnership between the authority and the City of Dunedin.

This Transit Development Plan (TDP) for the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) outlines a 10-year strategic roadmap from 2026 to 2035 to guide service, capital investments, and funding strategies. The plan focuses on advancing regional mobility, efficiency, and innovation by updating the transit network through the Connected Community Bus Network (CCBN). Key priorities include optimizing routes and frequencies, enhancing accessibility and connectivity, and addressing public demands for increased service frequency, broader coverage, and enhanced weekend services, all while integrating with land use planning and exploring alternative mobility solutions.